Print

Creamy Beef and Shells

A comforting dish featuring tender pasta shells and juicy ground beef in a rich, creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces medium pasta shells
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef stock
  • 15 ounces can tomato sauce
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a pot. Add pasta shells and cook until al dente, then drain.
  2. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onion, sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.
  4. Season the Mixture: Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: Add flour and mix well with the beef and onions.
  6. Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in beef stock and tomato sauce, stir to combine, and simmer.
  7. Creamy Addition: Reduce heat, add heavy cream, and stir until combined.
  8. Cheesy Goodness: Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
  9. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold in the cooked pasta shells until fully coated.
  10. Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  11. Serve: Enjoy warm, garnished with herbs if desired.

Notes

Serve with salad or crusty bread, and consider adding fresh herbs for garnish.

Nutrition